Ulcerative Colitis
- gutinforecipeblog
- Jun 7, 2024
- 3 min read
What is it?
Ulcerative Colitis (UC), chronic in nature, is a category of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) that results in inflammation in the digestive tract. It is similar to Crohn’s disease; however, the key difference is that Inflammation for UC patients commonly occurs only in the lining of the large intestines, containing the colon and rectum.
Severity/Complications:
There are four main stages of UC: mild, moderate, severe, and fulminant, which if left untreated, can result in patients having higher risk of developing colon cancer. It is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, when the body starts attacking its own healthy tissues of the lining of the rectum and colon in confusion. The inflamed colon lining can lead to cellular changing, increasing cancerous growth. As a result, ulcers can occur (open sores), resulting in the intestinal lining to bleed/leak pus and mucus. Complications include anemia, dehydration, bone loss, inflammation in eyes, skin, and joints, and blood clots. Frequent blood tests are used as markers to identify anemia and signs of infection. Stool tests also play an important role, as it can test for white blood cells, pathogens, and other proteins that specifically point to ulcerative colitis. Colonoscopy and yearly checkups are recommended to prevent further complications.
Symptoms:
Pain and cramping in abdomen
Scarring in bile ducts
Splashing sounds over the intestines
Diarrhea often
The feeling of needing to pass stool regardless that the bowels are empty
Weight fluctuation
Blood and pus in stools
What causes it?
Ulcerative colitis, similar to Crohn's Disease, is a condition whose cause is not yet fully understood. However, factors such as genes, weakened or abnormal immune reactions, insufficient blood flow to the colon, differences in the microbiome environment, and external environmental factors can trigger or worsen the condition.
Age, race or ethnicity, and family history are also important factors. Although the disease can develop at any age, it is more common in individuals above 30 years old. In terms of ethnicity, white people have a higher risk of developing UC, with those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent at even greater risk. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the condition can affect people of any race. UC can affect any race.
Treatment
In 2024, there is no cure yet developed for UC; however, research increases as cases become more common. Treatment can aid in decreasing symptoms and decrease impact on the patients well-being, but cannot eliminate it.
Ayurvedic Medication (originated from India), also helps improve bowel movement, relieve constipation, and detoxify the body. Similar treatment is given to patients with problems in the gut, with further personalization to meet the needs of the specific patients. A common medication used for gut health is Triphala.
Western medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, immunosuppressive drugs, steroids, and dietary supplements. Aminosalicylates also help reduce inflammation and are often the first treatment options for patients experiencing mild or moderate ulcerative colitis.
Colostomy, Ileostomy, Colectomy, and proctocolectomy are some surgeries to help aid in the recovery process. Colostomy creates a surgical abdominal opening for the stool to easily exit the body, while Ileostomy has a similar purpose but instead connects the small intestine to an opening in the abdomen. Colectomy and Proctocolectomy are surgical removal of some or all parts of the colon, or rectum, often done to remove the irritated and flared parts of the intestine to prevent further aggravation in the intestines.
Citations:
Unknown. (2022, September 16). Ulcerative colitis. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ulcerative-colitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353326. Accessed May 9, 2024.
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